By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Jaiaw MDC Adelbert Nongrum (KHNAM) on Thursday moved a resolution in the KHADC urging the Executive Committee (EC) to hold dialogues with the various clans who have the right of ownership of the land presently occupied by Defense Authorities, and stake claims for getting back the land.
“The KHADC should engage itself in this exercise since the 100-year lease agreement which allowed Defense authorities to occupy the land belonging to the various clans has already expired,” Nongrum said while moving the motion during the ongoing summer session of the KHADC on Thursday.
Stating that the State Government is already engaged in the exercise of getting back the land under Defense occupation, Nongrum said that the KHADC should also engage in a dialogue with the various clans and land owners on how to get back their land.
“It is more relevant for the KHADC to take up this task since it is a Constitutional body meant for protection of the rights and properties of the local indigenous population of the State,” Nongrum said.
Meanwhile, he also moved another resolution urging the Council to exercise its authority even in areas under the Shillong Municipal Board, while adding that as per the ruling of the Supreme Court, the Council has every right to exercise its authority in the areas under its jurisdiction.
Referring to a Supreme Court ruling on December 12, 1999, Nongrum said that the apex court, while setting aside an impugned judgement of the High Court, had upheld an appeal of the KHADC and established the authority of the Council in all areas under the Mylliem Syiemship including the Municipal areas.
Nongrum also expressed surprise that the Shillong Municipal Board was formulating laws even for areas which are outside their jurisdiction, while adding that the main job of the Municipality was to primarily look after health and sanitation.
“The KHADC should also take control of trading activities even in areas under the Municipality,” Nongrum added.
KHADC CEM Pynshngain N Syiem admitted that the issue brought up by the MDC was a genuine one, but urged Nongrum to withdraw both the resolutions.